06/04/2026
Meet Elizabeth the June volunteer spotlight!
Ranch: How did you first hear about and or get involved with Wings of Hope Ranch?
Elizabeth: I think from Betty Kniesche, who was in my DAR chapter. (Note from the Ranch, Ms. Betty kindly hosted Wings of Hope at her home for 16 years!)
Ranch: How long have you volunteered and what is your volunteer role?
Elizabeth: This is my third year as a volunteer. I started out doing barn chores and became a horse handler, as I have been around and owned horses a good part of my life. I am currently volunteering as an aisle monitor for sessions and giving tours for visitors to Wings of Hope. For the past 2 years, I have helped with the International Ranch Ministry Conference and plan to again this year as well.
Ranch: What do you like most about volunteering at Wings of Hope Ranch?
Elizabeth: As I tell visitors on my tours, this is one of the nicest places you could ever hope to volunteer. There is an atmosphere of kindness and willingness to help that makes all the difference. You can show up to volunteer, having had a difficult day, but you will go home feeling much better as a combined result of being with the horses and the volunteers. Perhaps the fact that Wings of Hope is a Christian, faith-based organization makes a big difference in the lives of everyone who is involved.
Ranch: Has anyone specifically mentored you or inspired you while working at the Ranch?
Elizabeth: I have been greatly inspired by the example of two young mothers in a playgroup who had an idea of something they wanted to do, and here we are, 20 years later, with a group of amazing volunteers, and a beautiful barn full of wonderful horses.
Ranch: Are you close to any particular horse at the Ranch and if so how/why?
Elizabeth: That’s a hard question – they are all such individuals, and each relationship is special. I could write about every horse in the barn. I really love them all…
Ranch: Have you grown in your faith in God/Jesus/Holy Spirit since you started volunteering with us? If so, please share!
Elizabeth: Yes - I think of Wings of Hope as a safe place to be, a refuge from a world that sometimes seems to have completely lost its way. Sometimes I think I can sense Christ’s presence in the barn, watching over everyone.
Thank you, Elizabeth, for sharing your life experience at the barn and always being willing to try something new. You're a joy!
Interested in becoming a volunteer join us for a tour on June 23 register here - https://www.wingsofhoperanch.org/event-details/june-ranch-tour-4